Air-Conditioning and Indoor Air Quality

By
Controlled Air
|June 18, 2013

Air-conditioning is fast becoming a must have for many new homes, and is
a popular choice for homeowners replacing old heating systems with modern
heat pumps. But how does air-conditioning affect the indoor air quality?
In fact there are a number of indoor air quality add-ons that can be used
in combination with your air-conditioning unit that can make your home
a much healthier place for you and your family. It’s possible to
filter the air and to control the humidity levels. This can greatly increase
and comfort and can reduce common ailments such as asthma and allergies.

Indoor Air Quality Is More Important Than You Might Think

Many people underestimate the need for having great indoor air quality,
but in fact it is cited as being one of the top five risks to health by
the Environmental Protection Agency. Not many people realize that the
air inside the home can be considerably more polluted than the outside
air. Part of the reason for this is that many of the particulates are
simply invisible to the naked eye but can be quite damaging to health.
It is estimated that every cubic foot of the air within your home can
contain millions of different particles that include dust mite debris,
pollen and mold spores. If these are present in relatively low concentrations
then they may only cause minor discomfort, but if they are present in
higher concentrations than it could be damaging to your health.

Your Air-Conditioning Unit Can Help Improve Indoor Air Quality

While it might be nice to fling open the doors and windows during the summer
months, sometimes it’s just too hot to do so and this is when air-conditioning
can be a real benefit. Even better, when used properly your air-conditioning
unit can help improve your indoor air quality. The use of air cleaners
and filters and an ultraviolet air cleaner can significantly improve the
quality of the air so you and your family can breathe easily.

Picking the Most Efficient Air Filters

The efficacy of air conditioning filters does depend on the type of air
cleaner used and the particulates present in the air. Some of the most
effective air cleaners can remove up to 99% of particulates. Most home
heating and cooling systems come with some sort of basic filter that is
designed mainly to protect the furnace from dust. These type of filters
will do very little to help improve the indoor air quality. In contrast
high-efficiency particulate air filters use a very densely folded media
to help trap particles passing through the filter. It’s important
to make sure you purchase the right type of filter, and this is something
your installer can advise you on, as some makes are definitely better
than others. Your heat pump or air-conditioning unit also needs regular
maintenance in order to function efficiently. Changing the air filters
at regular intervals is extremely important, and there’s really
no substitute for regular manufacture required maintenance. With a bit
of care your air-conditioning unit can provide you with excellent indoor
air quality right throughout the warmer months, ensuring the air you and
your family are breathing is as free from contaminants as possible.